Riding a wave from Hawaii to California

Sunday Quiz: When did Duke Kahanamoku introduce surfing to California?

Here’s a hint: It was the same year the celebrated Hawaiian participated in his first Olympics, taking a gold and silver in swimming events. Of course, other Hawaiians who visited the Golden State before Kahanamoku visited are thought to have tried the local waves, but it was the Olympian who who made headlines with his longboard.

The competition — using pre-1970 longboards Kahanamoku might recognize — continues today until 2 p.m. at Pleasure Point. Santa Cruz, by the way, was one his first forays into surfing off the mainland.

“If everyone owned a ukulele or a surfboard, the world would be a better place” — that’s how uke master Jake Shimabukuro, who’s been known to ride a wave or two, opened his recent concert benefiting the California Surf Museum, according to Surfer magazine.

On that note (get it?!) April 26 also marks the 16th edition of the ‘Ukulele Festival of Northern California, a showcase for pickers and strummers of all levels and a gathering of Hawaiian music lovers who also like to check out the food and crafts vendors.

Groups and soloists go on in 10-minute slots from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Hayward Adult School, 22100 Princeton St. in Hayward. The admission donation of $7 (free for children under 5) helps cover costs of the event and supports a college scholarship.